Hopetown event to inspire STEM ambitions

A STEM showcase is set to inspire thousands of schoolchildren as it prepares to roll into Darlington later this year.

The two-day ‘Destination STEM Hopetown’ event will take place in October at Hopetown Darlington and is expected to attract around 2000 pupils aged 10 to 13. 

Hosted by Darlington Borough Council and headline sponsored by global power technology firm Cummins, the exhibition will feature support from around 40 local businesses. 

Officials say young people will have the opportunity to take part in fun, hands-on activities and speak with STEM professionals, helping them link classroom learning to real-life careers in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Councillor Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, Darlington Borough Council, said: “The STEM sectors are a significant and important part of our local economy; offering highly skilled, well-paid jobs which will help people to remain living and working in the town once they have completed their education. 

“We continue to work hard to attract STEM businesses to the town and a key part of this is making sure there are enough skilled people to fill their roles. 

“Events like this are a great opportunity to get children and young people excited and interested in STEM careers and highlight these as a realistic and desirable prospect for their futures.”

Gareth Jones, community involvement leader at Cummins, added: “We are passionate about inspiring the next generation of innovators, problem solvers and change-makers.

“We’re proud to be the headline sponsor of Destination STEM Hopetown, an event that aligns perfectly with our commitment to education, community engagement and the future of STEM.

“By connecting young people with hands-on experiences and real-world role models, this exhibition opens their eyes to the exciting possibilities a STEM career can offer.” 

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